Originally Posted by
bluelagoon
I see a few things here that look off. First the grey slime coat indicates something in the water to case their defense/immune system to produce slime. I'm betting DOC and built up bacteria from lack of fresh water. You also might want to get a new nitrate test kit; the 5ppm don't add up with the feeding and WC's. Also, you didn't mention when you added Prime to your barrel; was that just before a WC or was it setting in the barrel for more than 24 hours, if so the bond is broken. Did you clean your substrate at least every other WC? Are they pooping normal color? I'd try 50% WC or more every day until things look like they 're improving. Make sure you keep substrate clean for discus.